Host-A-Boiler returns for community members to share holiday traditions, winter break with international students

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue's Host-A-Boiler is looking for faculty, staff and community residents to play host for a meal, a family gathering or community event during the upcoming winter break for international students who may not have an opportunity to go home.

Host-A-Boiler pairs singles and families with students to share a meal or an activity of mutual interest any time during winter break (Dec. 17-31). Last year, more than 250 students were able to spend time during holiday breaks with local families while thousands of miles away from their own families.

Purdue is home to 9,303 international students, and for some of those students, heading home for extended academic breaks is not an option.

Individuals who are interested in participating should go to www.ippu.purdue.edu/HostABoiler/ to learn more about the program and sign up to be a host. The deadline for winter break is Dec. 8. 

Media contact: Amy Patterson Neubert, 765-494-9723, apatterson@purdue.edu 

Source: Beth Tucker, Intercultural Programs Specialist, 765-494-9225, btucker1@purdue.edu